Children’s charity Jessie May’s unique family fundraiser set to return to Bath

A children’s hospice charity is encouraging families across the Bath and North East Somerset area to take part in a unique wheelchair-friendly event in the city next month.

Jessie May, which provides care in the homes of terminally ill children across Bath, is inviting people to their annual fundraising event ‘The People’s Grand Prix’, which takes place on Sunday, July 8th at GLL’s Odd Down Cycle Circuit.

The free event is held by Jessie May together with St. James Place Charitable Foundation, the charitable arm of St. James’s Place Wealth Management.

The fundraising day encourages people to get sponsored to run, walk, push or wheel their way for 3km around the Odd Down track to raise money for charity.

Online registration is now open here. The People’s Grand Prix is also a popular family-fun day, featuring live music from singer songwriter Lottie J, bouncy castles, a tombola, raffle and hot and cold refreshments.

Money raised during the fun day will be split between both charities.

Jessie May Community and Events Fundraiser Helen Mackie said: “We’re so excited for this year’s People’s Grand Prix! Last year’s event was a roaring success – we raised an incredible £2,400 for each charity and families came together to enjoy not only the track but the live entertainment and great atmosphere.

“This year we’re hoping to raise even more funding and encourage more people to take on the track, whether they choose to walk, run or roller-blade!

“The track is perfect for wheelchairs and small wheels, including skateboards and scooters, meaning the whole family can get involved, no matter the individual’s age or ability.

“Once again St. James’s Place have kindly agreed to match pound for pound all funds raised, with the amount being split between our two charities.

“Contributions like this are vital, as Jessie May is almost entirely reliant upon voluntary funding.

“The People’s Grand Prix is an incredibly special event for Jessie May. We love bringing together the community and inviting Jessie May families to enjoy a wonderful day out.

“It’s not too late to register a place on the track and get sponsored – get involved and sign up now for a truly fantastic event.”

Mark Woodham, Principal of Corinthian Wealth Management, Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management, said: “This is a truly fantastic event for two amazing charities, a brilliant uplifting and enjoyable day. We invite everyone to come along and help make a difference.”

Mark Harrison, Community Sports Manager for GLL’s Bath and North East Somerset partnership, said: “Better are very proud to be supporting Jessie May’s People’s Grand Prix again following the success of last year’s event.

“It is great to see the cycle track at Odd Down Sports Ground being utilised for inclusive events like this, making it accessible for everyone in the community.”

You can now register your place on the track online, by visiting the event’s registration page here. It costs £6 for adults and children to enter (under 2’s go free). Entry to the event and parking is free.

For more information about the event, email Helen on helen.mackie@jessiemay.org.uk, or call 0117 958 2174.

Currently Jessie May nurses provide vital respite care, emotional support, end of life care, and bereavement support alongside family events, working throughout Bath, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, North East Somerset and Wiltshire.

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